Hi,

I have a 2000 Silverado, 1500, ext. cab, 4x4, with 230k miles on it. I bought this truck a couple years ago from an older guy who said he babied it and never used it to haul or tow anything. I liked the fact that he was the original owner, lived in Orlando, had service records, and the truck was nearly rust free. This is my first Chevy, before I had a 2000 Dodge Dakota. Instantly, I was surprised by how rough the suspension felt on my new older Chevy truck, it almost feels bouncy!! So, I did what I could and replaced the shocks with some KYB gas adjust (front and back), and also replaced the torsion keys to balance the from front to rear. It used to have that front nose dive look.

Anyways, the truck still rides like crap in my opinion! Now, I am no expert or professional mechanic, but I do have a little knowledge and experience with suspension systems, and working on cars/trucks, etc. I did a complete suspension overhaul on an 1985 Volkswagen Westifalia last year! Damn springs nearly killed me, you know!

So, again, I am familiar with ball joints, tie rods, control arms, sway bars, shocks and springs, bushings, etc.

First question! There are no springs on my truck (2000 Silverado)! Is this stock for real?

Second question! I am pretty sure that the ball joints and tie rods need replacing, and I'm hoping that makes a big difference, but I'm wondering if I should go further into the project and "while I'm in there" replace on the bushing for the long haul? I plan to use this truck to pull a boat, camper, trailers, etc., etc.. Not on a full time basis, but occasionally. I want it to ride good!

Third question! My truck is currently pretty much all stock! A small lift kit might be nice, but they intimidate me because they look difficult to install and cost a lot more! However, I wouldn't be imposed to invest in one if it was going to help make my truck ride better, and I could find a quality kit at an affordable price? Where is the best places to look for Chevy suspension parts?

Last question! Anybody have a good 2000 Chevy truck suspension diagram that they could share? I'm wondering if there is something like a Steering damper or something else that is the reason my truck shakes and feels like the front end/wheel is going to fall off when I hit a man hole cover, etc.?

Thanks so much for all your time and help!

 

having owned a 2002 i can tell you that there are springs in the rear. and the front it controlled by torsion bars. you can turn the bars up to make for a higher ride think most is 2-3" but its something and i have to say it almost looks like someone has already done that to yours and it would explain why its a rough ride. if you feel the truck shaking in the steering wheel then its due to something in the front end rather its tires,wheel bearings or cv axles.